“Leadership Is Transformative Only When Institutions Outlive Leaders” – Sanusi
By Matthew Eloyi
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called for stronger and independent national institutions, warning that sustainable transformation cannot be achieved when institutions depend on individual leaders.
Sanusi spoke at the public presentation of “Military Transformational Leadership in Action: The Buratai Era”, authored by Dr. M.S. Abubakar, where he reflected on leadership, national security, political divisions and Nigeria’s institutional development.
The Emir said Nigeria’s security challenges could not be attributed solely to terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime, arguing that the country’s deeper problems were also linked to divisions created through political and public discourse.
He described the development as “violence in words”, referring to the tendency of Nigerians to categorise themselves along ethnic, religious and regional lines.
Sanusi urged Nigerians to reverse the politicisation of ethnicity and religion and rebuild a stronger sense of national identity, stressing that citizens should see themselves first as Nigerians.
He said political leaders should focus on providing education, healthcare and economic opportunities, while religious leaders should concentrate on their religious responsibilities rather than becoming directly involved in politics.
The Emir also addressed the longstanding debate over whether Nigeria needs stronger leaders or stronger institutions, saying the country requires both.
According to him, a strong leader cannot achieve sustainable results where institutions are weak, while strong institutions can equally be undermined by weak leadership.
He said institutional strength should be measured by respect for legal and institutional frameworks rather than the ability of individuals to exercise power.
Sanusi called for the depoliticisation of institutions including the military, police, judiciary, central bank and media, arguing that such institutions should be able to operate with sufficient independence to provide checks on political authority.
He noted that elected officials often work within four-year political cycles, whereas national institutions should be capable of thinking in terms of decades.
“Leadership is only transformative if it outlives you,” he said.
The Emir further linked economic conditions to national security, warning that unemployment, poor education, poverty and limited economic opportunities could leave young people vulnerable to manipulation and recruitment by violent groups.
He therefore called for investment in sectors and communities capable of creating jobs and reducing future poverty, stressing that economic development must complement military efforts to restore security.
Sanusi also commended members of the armed forces who had sacrificed their lives in defence of Nigeria, expressing hope that the country would return to greater peace and security.